The search is underway in the Albuquerque area for Native American actors to star in a tribally-produced feature film which shares the story of a trailblazing Native American entertainer.

An open casting call for “Te Ata” will be conducted from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Sat, July 12 at the Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North, 5151 San Francisco Road N.E., Albuquerque.

Produced by the Chickasaw Nation, “Te Ata” is a full-length feature film based on the remarkable life and legacy of Chickasaw performer Mary Frances Thompson.

Best known by her stage name, Te Ata, which means “bearer of the dawn,” she gained international fame presenting a unique one woman show of American Indian heritage and culture to audiences across the United States, Canada and Europe.

Named Woman of the Year by the Ladies’ Home Journal in 1976, Te Ata’s creative performances delivered to kings, queens, presidents and everyday people helped inspire greater respect and understanding of American Indian culture and heritage.

Inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1958 and the Chickasaw Nation Hall of Fame in 1990, she was awarded the Oklahoma Governor’s Arts Award in 1975 and declared Oklahoma’s first “State Treasure” in 1987.

“Te Ata” auditions will include a 2-minute reading audition before a casting committee.

Auditions will end promptly at 2:30 p.m. Please arrive no later than 2 p.m. to have the best opportunity for an audition slot. It is estimated the first 150 people will have an opportunity to read for judges.

Individuals interested in auditioning for a role should bring an 8X10 portrait and a résumé to the casting call.

Auditions are open to everyone. Native Americans actors are encouraged to audition.